Patek Philippe Calatrava 2481J

Patek Philippe 2481J Jumbo 37mm "King Size" Calatrava Watch, Circa 1957

Introduction: This Patek Philippe 2481J Jumbo oversized Calatrava watch is made in a 18K yellow gold, measuring 37 mm. The watch is fitted with a 27 SC caliber center second hand movement #707511 / #2604500. The watch is accompanied with a (o Swiss o) Sigma signature dial, original crown. The watch if further accompanied with a brown crocodile stitched strap and Patek 18K buckle. There is a choice of black or brown straps. Date & Paperwork: The watch was made in 1957 , confirmed with an extract from the archives confirming its date of manufacture and further sale in 1958. The watch has had factory service done recently. Additionally, the watch comes with a one year movement guarantee. Essay: Model 2481 was in production for nearly a decade from 1950 to 1960, with most examples in yellow gold, a more limited production in pink or rose gold, one example is known in platinum. With its 37mm case diameter, it is one of the largest vintage Patek Philippe ever produced, a trait that is nowadays making this model more and more sought-after. Equipped with the celebrated 27SC caliber, the best sweep seconds caliber available at the time. The fascinating case design still retains a "Calatrava" feeling, but with the adoption of unusual, avant-garde solutions such as the concave bezel and the heavily stepped lugs, it is a timepiece that, thanks to the visionary genius of Patek Philippe's design artists, can be worn and appreciated daily even today, more than seventy five years after its conception. Known as the ‘King Size’, it was introduced into the market in 1950 and was one of the largest wristwatches ever made by Patek Philippe. The model was available with the standard silvered dial. There were approximately 650 examples in yellow gold and 350 in pink gold. The cases were made by the Le Locle master case maker Bernard Dubois. Specifications: Reference Number: 2481J Year: 1957 Case Diameter: 37 mm Case Thickness: 9mm